What do the Missouri Synod regulations allow?
National President Kieschnick told The Washington Post that he authorized Benke’s participation in the interfaith service. “He cited a decision by the synod at its July 2001 convention to allow pastors to participate in civic events as long as they are free to express their religious views.” 1 The synod decision referred to is a document “The Lutheran Understanding of Church Fellowship: A Report on Synodical Discussion.” It was unanimously adopted by the Synod’s Commission on Theology and Church Relations.” It was also “in Resolution 3-07A, commended by [the]…Synod gathered in Convention” in 2001-JUL. 5 The document refers to instances in which pastors, teachers and other officially recognized church workers are asked to participate in activities which are outside of the Synod’s congregational life. The resolution reads: “Some of these are civic events. Offering prayers, speaking and reading Scripture at events sponsored by governments, schools, and volunteer organizations would be a
